CPAP & general questions

If you run out of distilled water, is it better to use tap water or to just not use the CPAP for the night (talking about mild sleep apnea here).  What could be the consequences of using tap water?

Also, how does one do a search of the board to find old topics or questions that have already been answered.  

i just returned my CPAP machine and there were plenty of times i used tap water.  I really dont think there are any consequences ofusing tap water other than it can rust the humidifier part of the machine over time.  I was never told anything different but maybe others know different.

Also i dont know how to do a search either to find old topics.  If you find out let me know..lol

Best Wishes

Julie

tap water is fine to use. however you really don't need to use the humidifier if you don't want to. it is just a feature that they have for during winter months when it is dry weather in the house. i have used it but found that i feel like i am drowning so i haven't filled it for years. it is just a preference. i have severe sleep apnea and have had it for years diagnosed in 2004. hope this helps you. and good luck.

I am out of water as we speak...I would just turn off the humidifier...tap water has impurities in it you don't want to breathe in..but I wouldn't not use it. 

the search is at the very top right of the OH pages...its a good friend of mine!

You can use tap water, but just boil it and let it cool first.

Tap water does have impurities and does cause mineral build-up. It's no more ok to skip your cpap therapy than any other prescribed item or medication that can make a difference in your quality and quanity of life. Untreated sleep apnea can kill you. It leads to heart disease, stroke, messes with your blood glucose tolerance, your hormone production, memory, cognitve abilities, and all other things that lack of oxygen affects. Cpap therapy is a very effective treatment only as long as you use it. A humidifier makes a huge difference in comfort and compliance. If you live in a humid climate, you may choose not to use it, otherwise you should. Nasal dryness can cause discomfort and swelling and lead to congestion.

Well said :)  I was told only to use distilled water to avoid mineral build up.  Just empty the reservior in the morning and rinse with warm soapy water, then get to the store :)  I wouldn't reccomend not using your cpap though.

You can use your CPAP withou****er in your humidifier temporarilly just turn your humidifier off..  You may find you don't need it if the humidity in your home is OK.  Most people need the extra humidity however.  Minerals can build up if you use tap water.  It will not only cause problems with your CPAP but will cause breathing problems.